Our culture fosters favorites. James utilizes the example of the well-to-do and the powerful to the neglect of the less fortunate. This kind of favoritism is sin because it conflicts with the law of
love and God’s mercy.

Temptation is defeated as we turn from corrupt desires to the giving God. God gave us His word, but hearing God’s Word is only a start. If hearing doesn’t result in doing you are just playing Church. Hearing results in living out righteousness and justice.

James’ opening instruction to the church makes it clear that this letter is going to turn their world upside down. The opening verses provide an overview of the entire book that exposes fallacies in common thought and practice.